Camping options near Cresskill, New Jersey range from lakeside platforms to urban RV parks within convenient driving distance. The region sits at the junction of the Palisades and Ramapo Mountains, with elevations ranging from 200-1,100 feet. Many camping areas experience seasonal closures between November and April due to northeastern weather patterns, though some facilities maintain year-round operations with reduced services.
What to do
Hike and swim at multiple lakes: At Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park, trails connect to swimming options at Welch Lake. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint. Free Hot showers in the bathrooms, with plenty of room to change," notes Megan B.
Visit nearby historic sites: Croton Point Park serves as a central base for exploring Revolutionary War landmarks in the region. "We came in October to celebrate Halloween in sleepy hollow! This is a great campsite and reasonably priced. Was close to bear mountains state park and the train station is right there!" writes Wendy C.
Off-season camping advantages: Several campsites near Cresskill offer significantly quieter experiences outside summer months. "Ranger said that during summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy, but mid-week during the off-season it was great. Expect to purchase firewood, although scrounging for kindling was possible," reports Rebecca S.
What campers like
Platform tent sites for weather protection: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park offers elevated tent platforms that campers consistently rate highly. "I camped on one of the platforms, which was very nice and did not feel crowded even with other people on neighboring platforms. One highlight was having meals cooked by the stellar chef," notes Ilya F.
Public transportation access: Some campgrounds near Cresskill offer shuttle services from train stations. "This campsite is accessible by public transportation. There is a shuttle run by the campsite to and from Tuxedo Park Train Station (reservations on shuttle required)," explains Ilya F.
Rustic cabin options: Sebago Cabin Camp — Harriman State Park provides basic shelter with some amenities. "These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge. You still feel like you are 'roughing it' but with the convenience of a fridge. Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING," reports Sara P.
What you should know
Bear activity awareness: Wildlife encounters require proper preparation at campsites near Cresskill. "The site was well kept and clean. Be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping. Wildlife do roam around your campsite," warns Kelvin at Beaver Pond.
Reservation complexity varies: Some campgrounds require phone reservations with unusual procedures. At Croton Point Park, "The reservation process is a bit wonky. You need to call (no online reservations) and then wait for an e-mail, but the e-mail does not tell you your assigned site; you have to wait until you check in," reports Lee D.
Urban camping limitations: RV options near Manhattan impose restrictions and higher costs. "It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor will be within inches of your rig," notes Keith and Tia S. about Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Select campgrounds with playground access: Certain campsites near Cresskill include child-friendly amenities. "Short distance from NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," recommends Zorina N.
Consider lake access options: Camp Glen Gray provides water activities suitable for families. "Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions," shares Christopher M.
Schedule around weekend noise levels: Noise patterns at campgrounds near Cresskill follow predictable patterns. "There is a constant buzz in the air of conversation, music, laughter and shrieking toddlers. Quiet time at night is laughable as the enjoyment of being in nature rages on into the early morning," reports Steve W.
Tips from RVers
Choose urban access over natural settings: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers proximity to Manhattan despite basic conditions. "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. Pluses, minutes walk to the Statue of Liberty, liberty Science center. Two blocks away from NJ Path train into Manhattan or take the ferry to Wall Street!" explains Keith and Tia S.
Expect security protocols: RV parks closer to urban areas implement different check-in procedures. "When we checked in, we had to write down our credit card number on a slip of paper before we were given a key that opened the gate to the campground," notes Lee D.
Consider alternative waterfront options: Some newer RV options provide skyline views. "The views of the city are spectacular, but the place itself is what I would call very rustic/primitive/not lovely. A day later, two days later, they texted us that we were late checking in. They had another mixup," cautions Arlene S.
